Albin Loydll, President of the German Travel Association (DRV), answered questions from Anadolu Agency at a summer reception held at Turkiye's Embassy in Berlin. Loydll emphasized that despite global geopolitical risks and changing market conditions, Turkiye continues to be an indispensable attraction for German tourists.
Assessing the course of the 2026 summer season, Loydll stated that the season started quite successfully and confidently. He noted that all indicators were positive until the end of February, but at the beginning of March, due to the war in the Middle East, there was a temporary decline in reservations lasting four to eight weeks.
Loydll said that in recent weeks, extremely optimistic expectations have formed again in the market. He noted that in the coming weeks, business volume could accelerate noticeably with last-minute travel demand, and a successful summer season awaits the sector.
Recalling that reports published in the first months of the year again showed Turkiye as the leading destination for German tourists, Loydll said this situation has not changed. Reminding that Turkiye was the number one summer destination in the German market last year, Loydll expressed that all forecasts indicate this leadership will be maintained in the 2026 summer season, and end-of-season indicators provide optimism.
Germans do not cut holiday budget despite crises
Referring to developments in the Middle East, the war atmosphere, and the increase in energy costs that pressure household budgets, Loydll stated that German citizens have not given up their desire to travel despite all this.
Stating that Germans have consistently allocated 6 to 8 percent of their net income to holiday spending for decades, Loydll emphasized that this stable picture is a positive signal for the coming months and years, and expressed his belief that the reservation volume will reach last year's level.
Listing the expectations of German tourists from holiday destinations, Loydll drew attention to the quality of accommodation facilities in Turkiye. Loydll said, "When Germans come to a country, they primarily look for beautiful beaches, excellent infrastructure in hotels, and a high level of equipment. All of these are offered at an exceptional level in Turkiye. Turkiye has excellent all-inclusive hotel complexes that are managed very successfully."
The DRV President added that German holidaymakers do not want to stay only within the hotel boundaries, they also attach great importance to cultural trips and active holidays in nature, and Turkiye is in a strong position in this regard as well.
Advice to industry representatives on price-quality balance
Loydll gave recommendations to industry representatives to further increase Turkiye's appeal for German tourists, pointing out the importance of the balance between price and quality. Stating that Germans always look for the most suitable and advantageous option for their budget, Loydll reminded that Turkiye is in very strong competition in the European market.
Underlining the sensitivity of the German market to price fluctuations, Loydll expressed that if a balanced budget and pricing policy is maintained, Turkish hoteliers can attract many more guests from Germany.
Loydll also said that young people should not see tourism only as a beach holiday or entertainment. He advised young tourists to go outside the hotels, do sports, and explore unique historical cities like Istanbul. He noted that tourism is not just about rest and entertainment, but also a process of learning, getting to know nature, and broadening horizons, and that this vision brings true satisfaction.
Stating that he believes the deep-rooted and strong ties between the tourism sectors of Germany and Turkiye will be further strengthened, Loydll added that during his visit to Ankara last week, he received very clear and positive signals that these strong bonds of friendship will be preserved in the future.
